Impact of Coronavirus on UPSC Aspirants: Adapting and Overcoming
The coronavirus pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to everyone, particularly to UPSC aspirants who rely on a strict study schedule for success. This article explores the impact of the lock-down on UPSC preparation and discusses the positive changes and adjustments made by aspirants. It also highlights the resilience of UPSC candidates and their adaptation to remote preparation.
Initial Challenges of Lockdown
With the lockdown in March, the initial impact on UPSC aspirants was significant. Udaya, a typical UPSC aspirant, shares his experience. He lived with two government employees parents and the change in routine due to the lockdown disturbed his study flow. The absence of study companions and the constant presence of family members at home made it challenging to focus. Udaya noticed a change in his sleeping pattern, studying late into the night and waking up late in the morning. This disturbance required him to adjust his study plan. However, he saw a silver lining in the 4 extra months he had for preparation, which turned out to be sufficient for many candidates to crack the UPSC examination.
Positive Impact of the Pandemic
The pandemic provided UPSC aspirants with an unexpected gift of extra time. During the lockdown, people stayed indoors, which made it easier for them to prepare for the UPSC examination. Udaya recognized that the time at home helped aspirants focus on their studies more intensely. This period allowed candidates to improve their preparation across all subjects of UPSC. Unfortunately, the pandemic's impact was not Without mentioning the negative aspects, the social and economic turmoil caused by the pandemic put many families in difficult situations. Students from poor backgrounds, in particular, faced severe financial troubles. Due to the lack of income, some families could not afford school fees, which affected their children's education. Despite these challenges, the government's services and support made a significant impact on many lives.
Adaptation and Routine
Despite the challenges, UPSC aspirants quickly adapted to the new reality. A typical day now for Udaya includes 8 hours of sleep, a newspaper and green tea in the morning, and a planner to organize his day. Study sessions are divided into two parts, each spanning 2-3 hours, with a break for a morning snack and lunch. Physical exercise, which used to be a challenge to fit into his schedule, is now a regular part of his routine. Udaya has lost 2 kg which is a testament to the positive changes in his lifestyle and mindset.
On some days, Udaya finds it difficult to stay motivated, and on such days, he engages in self-reflection and entertainment. Udaya blogs about his feelings, reads Quora, listens to music, and spends quality time with his family. The experience of the pandemic has taught him to cherish simple moments and to find joy even in challenging times. Udaya believes that the statement, "Hope is a good thing maybe the best of things and no good thing ever dies," is particularly apt during times of uncertainty. This sentiment reflects the resilience and determination of UPSC aspirants who are facing the exam with determination despite the unpredictable nature of the current times.
Conclusion: The coronavirus pandemic has presented unique challenges to UPSC aspirants, but with adaptability and resilience, they have managed to overcome these obstacles. The extra time provided by the lockdown has been instrumental in improving their preparation. While the pandemic has posed economic and social challenges, it has also highlighted the importance of government support and the strength of the human spirit.